Wish Ball is the largest annual fundraising event for Make-A-Wish Illinois. This signature event welcomes approximately 700 guests and raised $2.8M in 2024. The success of this event is in part due to the planning committee, a group of volunteers who work year-round to create this extraordinarily important night.

Simon Landon has served on this committee for nine years, and this year is recognized with the 2024 Fundraiser Award for the Wish Ball Committee for his dedicated work with the annual black-tie gala.

In his professional life in the field of public relations, he worked Golin and was connected to Make-A-Wish through colleagues who also volunteered. Now running his own ticket brokerage, Make-A-Wish staff say Simon has been nothing short of inspirational with the work he's done for the Wish Ball. 

His background, connections and love of the Make-A-Wish mission make him uniquely qualified to act as our Live Auction Chair. Live Auction in 2023 broke all records, exceeding gross revenue of over $600K. Simon's creative approach and thinking aid in creating a memorable and exciting Live Auction for all who attend.

Simon’s commitment to assembling creative, one-of-a-kind experiences makes the Wish Ball live auction an event like no other. His professional expertise in storytelling elevates the experience for bidders and non-bidders with his collaboration on the multimedia presentations of auction packages. Over his time with Make-A-Wish, Simon has met many wish kids and heard moving stories from parents deeply impacted by the Make-A-Wish.

"I am always amazed by how meaningful each wish is," Simon shared. "And it comes as no surprise by how seriously Make-A-Wish takes into account each family's experience."

What keeps Simon involved is knowing the important impact the organization has for families; that has been very important to him.

When he is not working or volunteering, Simon enjoys family time with his wife and two little girls living in Evanston. He also enjoys traveling, seeing live music, and especially eating great food.